Flowers to See in Japan this Spring!
Thuy Fang
As winter fades, Japan bursts into life with vibrant colors and breathtaking scenery. While cherry blossoms steal the spotlight, spring in Japan offers so much more than that. Let’s discover the must-see flowers that make spring in Japan truly magical!
Hydrangeas
Japanese hydrangeas, or ajisai, are beloved flowers that flourish during Japan’s rainy season. These flowers first bloomed wild in Japan, but with the introduction of European varieties, they now come in a dazzling array of colors and shapes! One of the most interesting things about hydrangeas is their color changes depending on the soil. If the soil is acidic, they turn blue; in alkaline soil, they become pink or red.
Hydrangeas symbolize gratitude, love, and even apologies. An old story tells of a Japanese emperor who gave a girl’s family hydrangeas to express his regret for neglecting her. Because of their ever-changing colors, they also represent the unpredictability of emotions.
In Japan, hydrangeas are a popular gift, especially pink ones, which symbolize deep love. They are a cherished choice for Mother’s Day. Furthermore, these flowers are easy to grow, making them popular for home gardens and parks. Some popular spots to admire hydrangeas include Meigetsu-in and Hase-dera Temple in Kamakura, Hakusan Shrine in Tokyo, and Yokoku-ji Temple in Kyoto.
Spider lilies
Spider lilies, or higanbana, are unique flowers with bright red petals and long, spindly stamens that resemble a spider’s legs. Originally from China, they arrived in Japan around 700 A.D. Unlike many flowers, spider lilies bloom before their leaves appear, creating a striking and mysterious look.
In Japanese culture, spider lilies are closely connected to the Buddhist holiday near the autumn equinox. They are often planted near cemeteries to honor ancestors, and legends say they guide the souls of the departed to the afterlife. They are also mostly found along roadsides, rivers, and rice fields.
Spider lilies have no noticeable scent, but their striking appearance makes them a favorite subject for photography. To see them in full bloom, visit stunning places such as Kinchakuda Red Spider Lily Park in Saitama, Butsuryu-ji Temple in Nara, and the Eriyama Rice Terraces in Saga. These places attract visitors to admire the sea of crimson flowers stretching across fields and temple grounds every year.
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Camellias
The camellia, or tsubaki, appeared in Japan over a thousand years ago and quickly became a favorite among nobles, samurai, and tea masters during the Edo period (1603-1868). These landscape shrubs bloom in late winter and early spring, adding color when many other flowers are still asleep.
Their petals can be white, pink, or red and have a light, delicate scent. Some varieties even have many layers of petals, making them look like roses! People have admired camellias for their elegance and resilience, as they can flourish even in extreme conditions and different environments, like harsh winters.
Camellias are often used as decorations in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. Additionally, their seeds are pressed to make camellia oil, which has been used for centuries in hair care and cooking. Spring is the perfect time to admire camellias. There are numerous charming places to see them in full bloom, such as Tsubakiyama Forest Park in Miyazaki and Camellia Garden in Kyoto’s Shisendo Temple.
Wisterias
Wisteria, also called fuji, is a breathtaking flowering plant that has enchanted people for generations. Originating in Japan, these vines are famous for their long, draping clusters of flowers that bloom in shades of purple, pink, white, and even blue. The flowers have a lovely, sweet scent, similar to grapes.
It’s deeply rooted in Japanese culture and is often seen in traditional art, family crests, and even kabuki dances. In the famous dance Fuji Musume, a young woman carries wisteria blossoms as a symbol of love and longing. Because wisteria vines can live for over 100 years, they also represent longevity and endurance.
In Japan, wisteria blooms create stunning tunnels that visitors can walk through. Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi is one of the most cherished places to admire wisteria. It is home to a 150-year-old wisteria tree and 80-meter-long wisteria tunnels. The flowers are illuminated at night, making the park look like a dreamland.
Why should I see these flowers this season?
Spring brings a world of colors, scents, and stories through its flowers. Each bloom carries a unique charm, beautifully woven into traditions, emotions, and history. Seeing them this season is a chance to admire nature’s artistry and an invitation to connect with their deeper meanings. Which of these flowers speaks to you the most? Share your thoughts in the comment below!
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